PROJECT ABSTRACT
Colorado Plateau Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit
(Cooperative Agreement # H1200-004-0002)
Park: Mesa Verde National Park
Project Title: Replace Three Trail Guides for Mesa Verde National Park (PMIS #115895)
Funding Amount: $18,900
CPCESU Partner Institution: San Juan Institute of Natural and Cultural Resources
(SJINCR) at Fort Lewis College (FLC) – Colorado Plateau (CP-CESU)
Principal Investigator :
Dr. Catherine Ortega, Director
San Juan Institute of Natural and Cultural Resources
Fort Lewis College, Durango, CO 81301
970-247-7393
Email: Ortega_C@fortlewis.edu
Co-Investigator:
Brenda Martin
San Juan Institute of Natural and Cultural Resources
Fort Lewis College, Durango, CO 81301
970-247-7393
Email: bulabrenda@gmail.com
NPS Key Official:
Tessy Shirakawa
Chief of Visitor Services
Mesa Verde National Park
970-529-4628
Email: Tessy_Shirakawa@nps.gov
Start Date: September 15, 2008
End Date: October 15, 2011
Abstract:
Description
Replace three outdated and inaccurate trail guides for Mesa Verde National Park.
Current guides lack accurate maps, adequate safety messages, thematic presentation of
information. Information is sometimes insensitive to current “politically correct”
terminology, and new research provides opportunity for updated information.
Justifications
Two trail guides (Cliff Palace and Balcony House) have been completely revised
(content, images, and design). By combining existing trail guides, improving content,
appearance, and accuracy, and including better safety messages, visitors will have more
‘user friendly’ trail guides, increasing their visitor experience, and safety.
Measurable Results
The remaining outdated and inaccurate trail guides will be replaced with accurate current
information and maps, improved images and graphics, and good basic safety messages.
As a result, visitor satisfaction, understanding, and appreciation for the resource will be
enhanced. The visitor will be properly oriented to the trails, be conscience of safety
hazards and be knowledgeable about resource protection.
Keywords
Cultural Resources
Native American
Historic Sites
Anthropogenic Issues
Social and Economic Issues
Land Use
GIS / Spatial Data / Tabular Data
Inventory / Maps